10 Greatest Samurai Films Of The 21st Century

Samurai warriors were typically cast into the service of their local lord and in Sword of Desperation, the close collaboration between two individuals is showcased. Directed by Hideyuki Hirayama, the film portrays the often frayed relations between the two societal classes.

Etsushi Toyokawa plays Sanzaemon Kanemi, a Samurai sentenced to solitary confinement for the murder of his lord's concubine. Over twelve months the film's story unfolds through flashbacks and the audience bears witness to Kanemi's true motives. In pursuit of both honour and favour, the Samurai could often be unpredictable in their deeds and as the associated Lord slowly learns the truth, we too understand why Kanemi acted the way he did.

The narrative expands as the protagonist returns to his lord's service, mainly working as a personal bodyguard. Through his demonstration of humility, he is able to rebuild relations with his masters. It comes just in time too, as Sanzaemon is soon challenged by other members of the clan in sparring contests.

By focusing less on direct military engagement and more on closed, closely-knit communities of sword fighters, Sword of Desperation is able to focus more on the discipline and behaviours that made the Samurai so revered. In doing so, it fills a unique niche in the genre.